Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 February 2025
Campus
Hobart
Citizenship requirement
Domestic
About the research project
The architecture and design of classroom spaces significantly impacts both teachers and students. The size and shape of rooms, along with the type and placement of furniture affect movement within the space and key architectural elements such as air quality, lighting, acoustics and thermal comfort directly impact student engagement. The design also influences pedagogical approaches that are most effective in a given space and the choices that learners and teachers make as they navigate these environments
Over the past two decades, there has been a shift towards designing learning spaces of varying sizes and shapes in Australian schools enabling structural and pedagogical flexibility. These bespoke designs align with changes to organisational structures of teaching and learning, the student experience and the work of teachers. Comprehensive research is needed to understand how these flexible learning spaces are utilized, their impact on teachers and students, and the knowledge required by teachers and students to use these spaces effectively.
We are looking to recruit an HDR applicant with an interest in the intersection of classroom design and education to examine the use of flexible learning spaces in the Tasmanian context. The project will involve applying qualitative research methods, and it may involve environmental assessments, interviews and observations. The successful applicant will have an understanding of classroom pedagogical practices and the research will be underpinned with a focus on equity in the classroom environment.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Academic experience
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Prof Louise Starkey to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 February 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
Apply now Explore other projects
Why the University of Tasmania?
Worldwide reputation for research excellence
Quality supervision and support
